Two young families are to benefit from the new skills acquired by a group of young people graduating from Course 40 of the U-Turn program today.

U-Turn is a diversionary program which aims to assist young people who are at risk of becoming involved in criminal activity, particularly motor vehicle theft.  U-Turn captures their interest in vehicles and teaches them practical skills in mechanical repairs, car bodywork and spray painting.

“The course also focuses on life skills such as literacy and numeracy and builds the confidence to commit to further education or employment,” said the Acting Commissioner of Police, Scott Tilyard.

Over the 10 week course, the young people repair and restore a damaged vehicle.  On graduation, they present the vehicle to member of the community who has been a victim of motor vehicle theft.

“It’s an important part of the diversionary program for the participants to meet the victim of a crime and have the satisfaction of handing over the restored car to a family who has struggled without transport,” said Mr Tilyard.

“I congratulate these young people on their graduation.  They have demonstrated a solid commitment to this course and I wish them the best for the future,” said Mr Tilyard.